Use of vibration testing in the early evaluation of workers with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Workers with symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) were evaluated by vibrometry to measure decreased digital vibratory perception and by questionnaire with comparison to a control group. Those workers with CTS confirmed by electromyography or surgery had significantly lower levels on vibrometry testing (P less than .001), and those with symptoms only also showed significantly lower vibrometry values (P less than .01 to .001). Early detection by vibrometry coupled with ergonomic intervention is suggested to be a cost-effective method to control cumulative trauma syndrome of the upper extremity.